Pilot William Franklin Buckelew

Pilot William Franklin Buckelew

United States Department of Justice - Immigration and Naturalization Service - United States Border Patrol, U.S. Government

End of Watch Friday, July 23, 1954

William Franklin Buckelew

Pilot William Buckelew and Inspector Donald Kee were killed in an airplane accident near Rio Grande City, Texas, while conducting flights to check farm laborers. The plane was banking to return to a field when it suddenly plunged into the Rio Grande River. Inspector Kee was killed on impact and Pilot Buckelew succumbed to his injuries en route to a hospital.

Pilot Buckelew had served with the agency for nine and half years and had previously served with the United States Army Field Artillery. He was survived by his wife and is buried in the Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas.

Bio

Age 35
Tour 9 years, 5 months
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Aircraft accident
Location Texas

Most Recent Reflection

View all 5 Reflections

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 59th anniversary year of your death. I am priviliged to be among the first to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

January 16, 2013